The Autism Education Center celebrates the 10th anniversary of receiving their first grant at `Grants on the Grand¿ at the Eberhard Center. From left are Melissa Adair, Judith Shea and Jamie Owen-DeSchryver.

Posted on April 01, 2011

More than 100 people celebrated the accomplishments of researchers at the sixth annual "Grants on the Grand" March 30 at the Eberhard Center.

Gayle Davis, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, encouraged faculty members to take a collaborative approach in their scholarship. "Through communication in one's field with others, innovation can emerge," said Davis. "The team approach can often lead to greater possibilities for external support for your creative endeavors."

Chris Chamberlain, director of the Office of Sponsored Programs, said faculty researchers collectively received more than $24 million in external grants last year.

John Koches, AWRI associate research scientist, said grant writers and researchers have unique charges. "You are given a chance to help answer a question or solve a problem that your community or society as a whole has identified as a priority," he said. "It is an honor to even be included as part of the process, but the potential rewards are significant."